Huge sadness after teen dies following tractor fall

School friends are consoled

THERE is huge sadness in the North Galway area following the tragic death of a secondary school student who fell from a tractor last week.

Sixteen-year-old Adam Higgins was a Fifth Year student at St Jarlath’s College in Tuam.

Adam fell from a tractor in the Sylane area last Wednesday evening (August 30) around 7.40pm. He was taken to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where he received treatment for serious injuries.

Gardai said this evening that the teenager passed away in the early hours of this morning (Wednesday) and that a postmortem will take place in due course.

Friends and classmates of Adam gathered in the Oratory of St Jarlath’s College in Tuam earlier today to remember the young student and to offer each other support at this difficult time.

School Principal John Kelly told the school community: “We are deeply upset at this tragic loss of Adam and our thoughts and prayers are with Adam, his family and friends.”

Mr Kelly said it was with great sadness that they had learned of the passing of Adam. The school remained open today and the school chaplain and the school counsellor will be on hand for the remainder of the week to offer support and assistance to students. Mr Kelly assured students, parents and guardians of the school’s ongoing support at this very sad time.

“Adam will be sorely missed by everyone at the college,” he added.

Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident last Wednesday or who may have video footage, to come forward to them.

Gardaí can be contacted at Tuam Garda Station 093 70840, on the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.